asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will give details of the policies or systems in place within his Department in relation to evaluating the environmental impact of industrial proposals; the form such assessments take; and the role this evaluation takes in adjudicating on industrial policy.
Written Answers. - Environmental Impact Surveys.
36.
My Department does not have any direct function in evaluating the environmental impact of industrial project proposals. The Industrial Development Authority and Shannon Free Airport Development Company Limited have statutory responsibility for the implementation of industrial development policy. The information sought by the Deputy relates therefore to the day-to-day responsibility of the State agencies concerned.
I am satisfied, however, that the IDA and Shannon Development take full account of the potential environmental impact of industrial projects. Specific provision is included in the standard grant agreement to ensure that projects comply with all statutory requirements and any other requirements believed to be appropriate.